Because vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, it dissolves in dietary fat in order to be absorbed by the body. The body also has the ability to store vitamin D, which is used when dietary intake is insufficient. Vitamin D can also be synthesized in the body with the help of the ultraviolet rays of the sun. A lack of vitamin D in the diet or a lack of sun exposure can lead to a bone disease called rickets, which usually affects children.
Symptoms
Rickets is characterized by the softening and weakening of the bones. When the bones are weak, it can lead to delayed growth; pain in the bones of the spine, pelvis and legs; and muscle weakness. Rickets can also lead to bowed legs, spinal curvature and other skeletal deformities, according to MayoClinic.com.
Treatment
Most cases of rickets can be successfully treated with vitamin D and calcium supplementation. In addition to supplementation, Medline Plus notes that some exposure to sunlight is also recommended. Some people may require braces to help prevent deformities. In cases where rickets has already caused extreme skeletal deformities, surgery may be needed to correct the bone structure.
Complications
If left untreated, rickets can lead to permanent short stature, permanent deformities and an increase in occurrence of bone fractures. Rickets can also lead to dental problems, weak teeth and increases in cavity formation. Severe rickets may cause breathing problems, pneumonia and seizures, according to MayoClinic.com.
Prevention
Adequate intake of vitamin D is the only way to prevent rickets. The Food and Nutrition Board, which is a subgroup of the Institute of Medicine, recommends that you consume 200 IU per day from birth to the age of 50. Adults between the ages of 51 and 70 have slightly increased vitamin D needs and require 400 IU per day. Adults aged 71 and older should consume 600 IU of vitamin D daily.
Food Sources of Vitamin D
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, very few foods have naturally occurring vitamin D. These foods include salmon, tuna, mackerel, beef liver and egg yolks. Fortified foods provide most of the vitamin D in the diet. These sources of vitamin D include milk, breakfast cereals, orange juice, yogurt, margarine and soy drinks.
